3.
PRIMARY SERVICES
DESIGN/BUILD MANUFACTURING:
Turnkey Delivery
Whether you are constructing a new facility or renovating an
existing one, SPEC can perform all the necessary services to
design and construct your new plant. As a design/builder, we
maintain a staff of skilled engineers in the critical disciplines
of process, mechanical, electrical and controls engineering
as well as manufacturing oriented architects. To complete
your project, SPEC also employs construction project managers and our own field superintendents. Your project will be
executed from site selection, through design and construction, to the final punch out.
Upgrades and Maintenance
If you need less comprehensive upgrade or maintenance services, SPEC
can supply the same level of expertise and management to your project. We are skilled at conducting projects with minimal interference to existing operations. We can supply our tested turnkey
methods to safety upgrades, maintenance operations, new equipment installations, controls upgrades and code compliance work.
Process Scale Up
Taking a product out of development and into manufacturing is a difficult process that involves numerous decisions
and trials. Similarly, increasing the efficiencies or improving
an existing manufacturing process offers some of the same
challenges, with the added problem of continuing to fulfill
regulatory and customer requirements. SPEC can help in both of
these circumstances. We have experience in working with your
scientists and technical staff to help them work out the problems as your manufacturing process
develops or changes. SPEC can then apply practical solutions that get you up and running quickly
with minimal trial and error and the smallest possible budget.
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4.
DESIGN/BUILD LABORATORY:
Turnkey Delivery
When a product is in development, it is advisable to build
a laboratory that will allow full flexibility to take that
product through a commercial launch. Careful attention
must be paid to workspaces, utilities and expansion possibilities. SPEC is experienced in developing a laboratory strategy that will provide the most efficiency and
flexibility when you are in a product development cycle.
We are fully knowledgeable about the problems you
will face during process
development and scale
up and can help your
company set the stage
to minimize those issues.
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6.
COMPANY OVERVIEW
INTRODUCTION
The simplest way to describe SPEC Process Engineering and Construction (SPEC) is that we are
"engineers who build." For most of our clients, we handle the entire project, from preliminary
budgeting and project planning through construction. For many projects we are also able to
assist with project financing. Our unique approach to design/build has the benefits of keeping
project costs down while keeping project efficiency and quality high.
Our company is sharply focused on manufacturing and product development related facilities
for fine chemical and pharmaceutical companies. Our entire team is specifically oriented to the
delivery of this type of project from the specification of process equipment to the navigation of
regulatory hurdles imposed by the FDA, environmental agencies and local authorities.
We also like to offer options for our clients. At the client's request we can supply an individual
project component such as process engineering, project management or cGMP consulting.
But even when we only supply a component of a project, the client gains from our construction
oriented approach. With SPEC, you get realistic, practical service based on engineering knowledge
combined with street-wise construction experience.
But what makes our approach different? There are several points:
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We are truly an integrated firm. All of our design engineers, process engineers,
construction/project managers and controls staff are under the same roof.
The person managing the construction will be an engineer with construction
experience - not just a construction person. For most technically and regulatory
driven projects, this can make a tremendous positive difference in the quality of the
final project.
We guarantee what it will cost up-front. Our goal is to lock a budget in, before
detailed design begins. We can typically achieve this with only 2% to 5% of the
project budget expended.
We take the risk. We not only guarantee the price, but we are responsible for all
aspects of the project right down to the ordering of the equipment.
Our focus is to undertake modestly sized projects. Our projects rarely exceed $25 million in
total project cost, with a more common range being $100,000 to $15 million.
To really understand SPEC, you need to understand our approach to projects. The best way we
have found to insure a successful project is to have a well thought out approach to the project,
the project management and validation.
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7.
PROJECT APPROACH
The SPEC approach follows a design/build model, with some modifications to overcome the
deficiencies in a typical design/build project as practiced by others in the construction industry.
The following is an overview of our approach to a typical manufacturing project for a process-based
company.
OBTAINING A DESIGN/BUILD PROPOSAL
The first step in any design/build project for SPEC is the development of a design/
build proposal for the entire project. This is done by developing the scope of work in
conjunction with the owner and using that preliminary design with selected sub-contractors to
develop a preliminary document set and budget.
During this initial phase, SPEC works to understand the client’s standards and if applicable,
the existing facility. Complete knowledge of standards and existing conditions expedites the
design of similar systems, and highlights shortcomings, if any, of the existing installation. Once
the scope is fully developed, a schedule is compiled and all information is reviewed with the client.
The client’s standards and the project scope become the design basis for the project. This
design basis is key to defining the detailed engineering scope including the list of drawings and
specifications which will be completed during detailed design.
DETAILED ENGINEERING
After a design/build contract has been negotiated, the detailed design effort begins. SPEC typically divides projects into two “tracks”, with one group focused on the development of P&ID’s and the
process equipment and the second group completing engineering of the mechanical, electrical
and architectural details. Design documents are only completed to a level of detail required to
facilitate the bidding process.
During the bidding process, it is very possible that potential subcontractors will suggest
improvements in the design that will reduce cost or enhance the quality of the project. The
drawings are then brought to a further level of detail incorporating these suggestions from the
subcontractors where appropriate. This results in a project that is well designed, efficient and
constructable.
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SPEC is standardized on AutoCAD. SPEC believes strongly in CAD, and we require all our
engineers to work in the CAD environment. Additional design programs for piping, instrumentation,
and electrical design are also available, based on the level of design documentation required.
BUYING OUT THE PROJECT
Most projects will require a variety of construction trades such as:
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Mechanical (process piping, HVAC, plumbing & fire protection)
Electrical (power and instrumentation)
Steel (decking and equipment supports)
Concrete foundations and housekeeping pads etc.
Architectural (exterior & interior trades)
Controls & instrumentation
Using the design documents, a written scope of work and specifications for different aspects of
the project, each of the above trades are bid and the results presented to the client for review.
Each bid will be compared to the original budget for the project, and final selection of subcontractors
made in consultation with the client. SPEC will hold all contracts for the client, but the client will
always fully participate in the selection process.
SPEC will prepare specifications for all equipment involved in the project, and where
appropriate, will obtain competitive bids for this equipment. Bid information would also be
presented to the client to allow a coordinated selection of the best equipment suppliers. SPEC
will prepare all purchase orders for equipment and manage the expediting process as part of the
overall contract.
In addition to purchasing major process equipment, SPEC believes that the process automation component of the project is crucial to a successful startup. Therefore SPEC has developed
their own automation group to provide the detailed design, programming, and startup services
directly. Because the automation engineers are intimately involved with the client right from
the scope definition phase of the project, instead of just starting at the end of the buy-out
phase, the time for startup is significantly reduced.
CONSTRUCTION
The key to successful construction is the coordination of the subcontractors on the site. SPEC’s
project manager also performs the construction management role during this portion of the
project. Day to day site management is typically handled by a Site Superintendent who will
work hand in hand with the project manager for the duration of the project. Larger projects
may sometimes require multiple Site Superintendents to focus on different aspects of the
construction.
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This professional team will also be responsible for orchestrating the many meetings that help
keep a construction project on track - from the daily meetings with the subcontractors to weekly
meetings with the owner for updates on budget and schedule.
VALIDATION AND TESTING
Even though validation is after construction on this list, the validation effort actually begins
when the project begins. During the design phase, SPEC will work with the owner and their
third party validation consultant to identify all crucial areas of validation and determine with
the client what systems and equipment need to be validated and what level of documentation
will be developed. Please see the validation section that follows for further information on
validation procedures.
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PROJECT MANAGEMENT APPROACH
A well-planned project approach needs strong project management to actually make it work.
Without experienced project management and solid project management tools, the many
issues and decisions that are presented during a project can simply not be handled in the
appropriate way.
Good project management has its highest impact on the project in two areas: scheduling and
cost control.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT – SCHEDULING
For manufacturing facilities, scheduling revolves around three key aspects of the project:
• Design
• Process equipment
• Contract packages
As a true design/build firm, SPEC starts each project by defining the project’s goals with the
owner from a cost and schedule point of view. This allows us to formulate a milestone schedule
working backward from the required facility completion date. Some of the expected schedule
items for a typical project include:
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Client process validation
Client engineering runs
Completion of OQ’s and PQ’s
Completion of punch list
Contractor submittals
Contract package release, bid and award
Design - from concept to approval to release for bids
During the milestone scheduling review, key scheduling impacts are identified and examined
for their effect on design. In the design/build method which SPEC utilizes, these impacts are
explored up front and a design basis is selected to meet the overall project goals of schedule,
cost, and functionality. In this way, SPEC, in conjunction with the owner, is able to flag key
decisions very early, and address them to avoid redesign and scheduling impacts later in the
project.
Weekly in-house project coordination meetings are held with the owner and all involved design
disciplines. This meeting functions as a clearing house for the latest design developments as
well as a project management tool for identifying and resolving design issues and conflicts.
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Every issue identified is assigned a meeting number, which is carried in the meeting minutes,
until the issue is resolved. Design drawing progress is tracked via a drawing control index which
monitors design progress versus the schedule of release for bids.
Within the SPEC design schedule exists a parallel effort regarding all process equipment.
Key facility equipment items are tracked from the initial data sheet through approval, bid, award,
submittals, inspection, and receipt at the job site. SPEC tracks this data on our equipment
control index, which indicates both the scheduled and actual dates for each phase for every
single piece of equipment. This project management tool is critical in identifying items for
expediting or special attention at the weekly coordination meeting. On fast track projects, the
schedule frequently drives the design process as well as equipment selection, both of which
are best served by a design/build approach to project delivery. Examples include:
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Early foundation release to avoid winter construction
Exterior construction selected to support building enclosure prior to winter
Selection of packaged HVAC units versus separate sections
(indirect gas fired heating, air handling, and cooling)
Selective use of used equipment
Single sourcing for early award on selected equipment
Start automation program prior to final design completion
Prior to completion of design, SPEC’s project manager in conjunction with the construction
superintendent, formulate the scope of work for each construction contract package. This is
reviewed with the design disciplines for completeness, as well as exceptions and issues, which
must be clarified to the bidders. In this way, SPEC ensures the quality of the bid package prior
to release, thereby avoiding confusion, delays, and additional costs in the bid cycle.
Scheduling compliance is insured via weekly construction coordination meetings. After award
of the various bid packages, the project manager tracks each contractor’s submittals, deliveries,
and installation progress against the master project schedule. Expediting of submittals, inspection
of equipment at the factory, and vendor shop visits are utilized as means of insuring on-time
delivery as well as adherence to project specifications.
Involvement of the appropriate design engineer is maximized in order to expedite the receipt
and approval of submittals, as well as to clarify issues which arise during construction. The
expeditious return of submittals and fast response on contractor questions (RFI’s - Request for
Information) is assured by SPEC’s design/build approach. All our personnel are committed to
the final project result and are not tied solely to marketing, design, construction, or controls.
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PROJECT MANAGEMENT – COST CONTROL
Cost control is most effective when it is focused on three critical areas:
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Assuring that the original design represents the least possible expenditure to meet
the owner’s operational and quality goals.
Eliminating “scope creep” so that the project scope does not expand beyond it’s
agreed upon intent during the construction phase.
Eliminating inefficiencies and excess overheads commonly found in technically and
regulatory driven projects.
All of SPEC’s clients have fixed budgets for their projects, and most budgets these days are tight.
The SPEC approach is to work very hard to design and build a facility that meets the budget but
also meets our client’s expectations while meeting regulatory requirements. While we have not
discovered a “scientific method” for doing this, we feel that we have developed an organization
that thinks and acts this way.
Many of our staff are from the owner’s side of the table and have had hands-on operating
experience. Our people care directly about the budget and are not tied to standard engineering
solutions.
Eliminating “scope creep” during construction can be a little more scientific because various
control mechanisms are put in place. SPEC uses recognized change order procedures and
weekly job cost reporting so that the owner and the project team are always aware of current
project costs as well as where they are heading.
However, we have found that we have to go beyond these standard management tools to
effectively control project scope. One way we do this is to involve the trades (Mechanical,
Piping, Electrical, etc.) early in the design process. By involving these professionals, current
market prices are made available to the design team allowing them to avoid costly design
decisions.
We also find that requiring our engineers to have regular involvement on the site helps eliminate
scope growth. When a request for additional work comes from someone on the owner’s team,
there is someone on site who can quickly assess the request, estimate a budget for it, and many
times find alternative means of meeting the request.
The last area of cost control for SPEC is one that is built into our very structure. By having a vertically
integrated team we can avoid two common cost drivers - overhead and inefficiency. Many of
our people perform double duty. For example, site superintendents will commonly assist in
commissioning & turnover. Secondly, since many of our engineers will not only design but also
be responsible for building a project, there is very little time (i.e. money) lost in translating the
project design to the people actually doing the construction work.
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Typical examples of the project tools, which SPEC uses to control costs, are listed below and attached.
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The design/build contract budget indicates the contract budgets by account line,
which are then tracked from bid to placement to contract completion.
The bid tabulation, which evaluates the technical offering as well as the vendors/
subcontractors schedule and budget compliance. Client sign-off is required by
SPEC on all bid tabulations.
The contract change order which is used to document scope additions as well as
all shifts of money from the contingency account. Again SPEC requires client sign-off
on all change orders.
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PROCESS AUTOMATION APPROACH
PRELIMINARY DESIGN PHASE
SPEC automation engineers get involved in the project during the initial design and scope
definition phase. How the plant is supposed to operate is as important as how it is constructed,
so preliminary functional specifications for plant automation are developed in the preliminary
design phase of the project. The I/O count, instrumentation standards, operator interface requirements, and the recipe and data collection philosophy are defined up front so a qualified
price estimate can be developed. This is in contrast to the traditional engineering/bid methods
of construction which leave the real fixed costs of the process automation budget to the later
bidding phase.
DETAILED DESIGN PHASE
During the design phase, the control panels are designed and detailed program functional
specifications are developed. Due to the fast track of SPEC projects, automation programs are
developed in house as soon as the specifications are completed and approved. SPEC has a
team of experienced engineers to program a variety of automation platforms, PLC, DCS, and
computer based control systems.
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
During the construction phase, SPEC automation engineers purchase instruments and automated
valves. They are inspected individually by the purchasing engineer prior to release of the item
to the installing contractor. SPEC’s automation engineers then provide field supervision, answer
RFI’s and provide general assistance to the overall SPEC field superintendent as well as the
instrument installers, electricians, and calibration technicians.
STARTUP
After mechanical completion, SPEC automation engineers work closely with the process
engineers to start up each automated process and execute detailed site acceptance testing
procedures.
LONG TERM SUPPORT
Through on-site assistance and use of remote access communications, SPEC can provide services
for system upgrades, troubleshooting, and periodic backup of control system computers.
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PROJECT PROFILES
FINE CHEMICALS
ARKWRIGHT INCORPORATED, NEW MIX FACILITY –
FISKEVILLE, RI
Project Description:
SPEC has designed, constructed and performance tested a 5,000 square foot, $4.7M, specialty
coatings manufacturing facility within strict budget, time and performance constraints. The
project utilized blast resistant / relief construction Class I, division I & II due to solvents used in
the process. In addition to meeting the client’s goals for schedule, budget and performance
requirements, SPEC’s design/build approach provided single source responsibility to the owner.
Our solution provided:
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Accuracy for batch ingredients of less than 1%. Powder delivery system capable of
dust free performance at accuracy specified. Flow control of bulk solvents, and bench
scale additives via a closed loop system to insure operator safety and product quality.
Automated Batch Control System utilizing Modicon PLC’s and Intellution Visual Batch
software, with preprogrammed recipe management and handheld barcode scanners
to track raw material lots through entire batch process to insure quality and support
enterprise wide management systems.
Complete performance certification of facility to certify that our design met the
requirements of the contract. Performance requirements defined batch accuracy and
run rates, supporting building utility requirements and the facility schedule of
construction. All SPEC subcontractors were held to the same performance
criteria to deliver an integrated construction package for this design/build project.
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DSM NEOSOL, INC. – RI
Project Description:
Delivered on a design/build basis, this project involved the relocation, upgrade and startup of
DSM NeoSol’s entire polyurethane manufacturing operations as well as the build-out of their
offices and laboratories in the new location. SPEC found and evaluated the appropriate new
site location that would meet DSM’s short-term and long-term operational goals. SPEC also
worked closely with local authorities and environmental consultants to secure all required
permits and site approvals.
The Project Highlights include:
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Two phase project approach.
o Phase 1 – East Providence building retrofit
o Phase 2 – Relocated W. Warwick operations
67,700 sq ft single story base building separated into two buildings with double
4-hour walls for the following classification areas.
o Building 1 - 13,000 sq ft high hazard (H2) use group space.
o Building 2 - 54,700 sq ft with 4 control areas:
3,300 sq ft H2 flammable storage occupancy.
51,300 sq ft mixed use area with B, F-1 and S-1 use groups.
Exterior solvent tank farm.
New manufacturing platforms for solvent and aqueous manufacturing.
Scale-up and improvement of coatings operation.
Delta V DCS batch process system with over 700 points.
New process utilities and distribution including cooling tower, 230°F pressurized hot
water boiler, compressed air and breathing air, and bulk nitrogen storage.
Added 2000 amps of 480 volt power and distribution.
Evaluation and re-commissioning of two 150 psi boilers and 100 psi compressed
air systems.
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WATERS CORPORATION, THERMAL OXIDIZER – TAUNTON, MA
Project Description:
Waters was cited by the Massachusetts DEP for air emissions violations from their Taunton
chromatography media manufacturing facility. SPEC provided detail design, construction and
performance testing support to meet a hard deadline for completion. Project cost approximately $2M.
The Project Highlights include:
• 60,000 cfm regenerative thermal oxidizer (RTO).
• New roof mounted stainless steel duct for exhaust collection. Allowed for
uninterrupted plant operations with a weekend demolition of exhaust fans and
tie-in to the new RTO.
• New make-up air handlers with cooling capability for the manufacturing suite.
• Building management upgrade to allow pressure control for permanent total
enclosure status.
• Construction of an air lock for material flow to the production suite.
• Site electrical service upgrade, multi tap to a new exterior 2000 amp service, including
transformer replacement, weather-tight switchboard, and distribution to
new and existing panels.
• New natural gas service to building.
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18.
CLEAN TECHNOLOGY
KONARKA, THERMAL OXIDIZER - NEW BEDFORD, MA
Project Description:
Konarka, a fast growing photovoltaic company out of Lowell, MA,
decided to modify their process and change their base solvent to a
chlorinated constituent that required water scrubbing downstream
of their existing thermal oxidizer. To address this new requirement
they purchased a new thermal oxidizer from Durr, a leading supplier
of industrial cleaning and filtration systems, with a downstream scrubber that was designed to
handle the new solvent. After the purchase, Konarka realized that they needed help with the
installation of the new unit and contacted SPEC. SPEC immediately set up a conference call
with both Konarka and Durr to quickly identify the project requirements and timeline. SPEC’s
experience installing similar thermal oxidizers at other clients’ sites made us an excellent partner
for Konarka on this project.
The project consisted of satisfying a list of installation requirements provided by Durr to Konarka,
which ultimately provided the contractual basis for SPEC’s scope of work. SPEC ensured that
all of the required infrastructure: power, utilities, structural concrete pad, site work, etc. were
designed and installed to meet Massachusetts code and satisfy the unit’s requirements. The
timetable for this project was particularly important since the unit was expected to ship in June,
with all installation requirements completed by its arrival at Konarka’s facility, and start up in July
2009. SPEC had less than three months to help Konarka prepare for the thermal oxidizer delivery
and installation.
The Project Highlights include:
• Permitting – SPEC’s engineering staff provided stamped drawings for submittal for a
building permit required for the concrete pad. SPEC’s construction team worked with the
Fire Department and the Building Inspector to obtain the proper permits and ensured that
all design requirements were met. They also followed up with the local authorities at the end
of the project to close out the permits.
• Schedule – The project execution was accelerated because SPEC was brought on after the
product had been ordered. In order to meet the tight schedule, SPEC prepared permit level
drawings to submit to the town for approval prior to final construction drawings being
completed. This allowed us to obtain the permit and subcontract the site and concrete scope
early so that we could have the pad poured and cured in time for the arrival of the equipment.
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QTEROS, PILOT PRODUCTION - CHICOPEE, MA
Project Description:
Qteros is a venture capital funded cellulosic ethanol company that was growing out of small
lab space located near the University of Massachusetts Amherst campus. This client needed to
grow quickly. During discussions with a recommended local piping contractor, the client asked
for assistance in planning a new lab/pilot space. The contractor explained that this was not their
area of expertise and recommended that they contact us. Their CEO got in touch with us soon
afterward and SPEC was contracted for their complete laboratory and R&D pilot fermentation
area.
The Project Highlights include:
1. Selection and purchase of analytic
laboratory equipment for their new lab.
Their own scientists were too busy developing
next generation biofuel fermentation bacteria
to research and talk to vendors about HPLC
and Gas Chromatography (GC) systems, so we
introduced them to a consultant in our network,
a lab equipment specialist. This consultant
interviewed their scientists to determine their
analytic methods, and worked with vendors to
negotiate volume pricing for outfitting all instruments and equipment in the new lab. All of
the required lab instruments were placed on order six weeks after SPEC initiated this effort.
2. Selection of rentable lab space. SPEC developed a preliminary facility program and related,
estimated utility requirements to guide Qteros’s evaluation of potential buildings. Once the
client honed in on a specific facility we revised the floor plans to test the fit of their intended
program in the target facility. This particular location was especially attractive to our client
as it was already fully outfitted with with lab benches and utilities from a previous tenant.
3. SPEC purchased several million dollars of pilot scale fermentors for the new labs. The
client was having difficulty getting comparable quotes and a delivery schedule that met their
aggressive timeline for R&D results. SPEC brought in additional vendors, honed in on the
exact options and systems to purchase, and succeed in reducing their costs and improving
delivery of both their 20L and 100L fermentation systems.
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BIOPHARMACEUTICAL
ANTIGENICS, GMP PRODUCTION FACILITY – WOBURN, MA
Project Description:
SPEC has successfully designed, constructed and commissioned a 30,000 sq ft pilot scale manufacturing facility including a vivarium, class 10,000 autologous processing suite, specialized infectious
disease laboratories and utility space. In addition the project required R&D lab space, administrative
office areas and building site and façade upgrades.
Process utilities included; WFI, clean steam, pH neutralization, high-pressure plant steam and
an extensive air handling system.
Project highlights included SPEC’s ability to provide the conceptual design necessary to prepare a
preliminary Establishment License Application (ELA) for submission to the FDA for preliminary
review. After the FDA review SPEC proceeded to develop a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP)
package, which included the total scope of work, project budget, project schedule and performance
based contract for the project.
Due to the fast track nature of this project SPEC accelerated the procurement phase by
pre-purchasing major capital equipment items. Subcontractors that were deemed critical to
the success of the project were prequalified and the bid packages were expedited to insure
that schedule was met.
During the start up phase of the project SPEC process and controls engineers commissioned
the project to provide the client with a functioning facility. Documentation packages were provided to support validation protocols and operator training for all systems was provided by
SPEC.
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APPLIED BIOSYSTEMS, REGIONAL MANUFACTURING
FACILITY – BEDFORD, MA
Project Description:
SPEC completed a new manufacturing facility
for Applied Biosystems in Bedford, MA. Ground
breaking took place in the fall of 2002 with the
startup and turnover in the 3rd quarter 2003.
Product qualifications have been completed
and the owner is moved in and manufacturing
product.
This greenfield project provides the owner
with the ability to manufacture multiple product lines and comply with cGMP’s. Batch records
are generated via the Delta V control system providing the owner with the flexibility to accommodate
multiple batches and comply with customer and regulatory agency documentation requirements.
The Project Highlights include:
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30,000 sq ft single story bay base building including 5,000 sq ft constructed to meet
high hazard classification and an additional 9,000 sq ft of equipment penthouse, and
space for office and QA/QC functions.
Process utilities including RO/DI, plant air, 4°C & -20°C glycol systems, vacuum &
high vacuum.
Waste treatment and hazardous waste storage areas and underground fire water
containment system.
Bulk solvent storage tank farm with solvent metering and truck unloading systems.
S88 compliant Delta V Batch control system.
SPEC Process Engineering & Construction delivered this project on a design/build basis and is
responsible for all aspects of the project. Our package delivers an integrated solution with the
following contractual features:
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Guaranteed maximum price contract
Open book accounting with 100% of savings returned to the client
Single contract linking design & construction
Performance based criteria for measurement of project completion
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PHARMACEUTICAL
ASTRA-ZENECA METHANOL DELIVERY CONTROL SYSTEM –
WESTBOROUGH, MA
Project Description:
SPEC worked with Donovan Engineering and Construction
as a contracting team to install a new methanol storage,
delivery, and waste collection system for AstraZeneca
pharmaceuticals in Westborough, MA.
SPEC provided a full scope of instrument & control
engineering for the project.
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Control software detailed design specification
documents
Control panel design, schematics, and construction
PLC programs using Modicon Concept with IEC-61161 standards
Instrument calibration
Electrical installation for all instrumentation and control wiring in CL1 Div 1
as well as non-rated areas
Intellution Fix SCADA system to monitor, record and alarm, and control
the whole process
Detailed instruction manuals for the operators
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JOHNSON MATTHEY PHARMACEUTICAL SERVICES – DEVENS, MA
Project Description:
SPEC has supported Pharm Eco Labs (now
Johnson Matthey Pharmaceuticals Services)
dating back to 1994 when SPEC renovated
the client’s first pilot scale manufacturing
facility in N. Andover, MA. This facility is still
operational and SPEC has supported its ongoing
operations.
As the company grew and required additional
facilities, SPEC master planned The JMPS facility
in Devens, MA in 1998. After completion of
the 1st phase of construction JMPS (at that
time Pharm ECO Labs) occupied approximately
½ of the three available wings constructed.
Phase 1 included corporate offices, research,
development labs, QA/QC labs and a central
utilities plant, and shell/core work creating the basis for the campus that exists today.
Over the course of the last 5 years SPEC has designed and completed construction of numerous capital
improvement projects at this site. Most recently SPEC designed, constructed, commissioned and
supported the completion of two manufacturing suites for API’s. This project included upgraded
utilities to support the manufacturing requirements. Virtual tours of the Devens site can be
viewed at: http://www.jmpharmaservices.com/tours/tours.html
The Project Highlights include:
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Design for blast relief/resistant construction
cGMP pharmaceutical manufacturing suites
Utilities upgrade for emergency power, syltherm low temp. chiller system, etc.
Hastelloy C and stainless reactors
Delta V Batch controls platform
Guaranteed maximum price contract, TIC < $8 million.
Open book accounting with 100% of savings returned to the client
Single contract linking design intent with construction outcome
Performance based criteria for measurement of project completion
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ST. GOBAIN – NORTHBORO, MA
A global technology company had developed a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) ceramic fuel cell
technology in a European subsidiary. Their USA R&D facility was planning on taking over the
R&D testing and further development.
Project Description:
To set up the SOFC lab the client had a shell building built with no utilities. SPEC was brought in
to "get it built." When we first sat down with the client the "IT" was undefined.
The client only had process requirements for the fuel cell test stand which included:
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Gas supplies to the fuel cell stack which controlled flow, temperature and pressure.
Steam supply to the fuel cell stack with controlled mass flow.
Building permits, safety shutdowns systems and interlocks for hydrogen trailer hookup.
Connections to client campus security and fire alarm safety shutdown systems.
Cooling Water System.
DI Water supply.
SPEC’S WORK INCLUDED:
Process
Fully welded hydrogen and methane piping, with code approved wall penetrations special alloy
tubing for high temperature operation with heating/cooling stress analysis for engineered
bends in the gas tubing to accommodate piping growth due to thermal expansion between
20°C and 850°C.
Electrical
New electrical panels and feeds with UPS and non emergency power feeds. Electrically classified
Class1 Div1 around gas connections implemented using intrinsically safe wiring (instrumentation connections) and poured seal fittings (for power connections) near gas connections.
Controls
The project involved 2 PLC systems, safety interlock control, and test stand control; as well as
wiring and integration with specialty test equipment for the fuel cell stack. SPEC installed a
new data collection RSVIEW Scada system and the existing lab PLC was integrated for data collection and
alarming. The scope included specialty high temperature instrumentation and fittings were
specified for the gas streams.
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26.
CONFIDENTIAL CLIENT, FAST TRACK, CELLULOSIC
ETHANOL PILOT PLANT – ONEIDA, NY
Project Description:
The client initially contracted SPEC to provide process engineering expertise for their
fermentation section of a pilot scale R&D line. Within a few weeks of the two teams working
together, SPEC’s assignment was expanded to include the full pilot line design, procurement
and delivery of skid based plant modules. The client’s extremely aggressive schedule targets
precluded the purchase of new equipment. Therefore, SPEC identified and purchased used
tanks, agitators, an autoclave and filter press. After putting all of the long lead equipment on
order, we developed P&ID’s for the full process, added in a DCS, engineered control panels, and
bought all the instruments.
With the process skids well underway, SPEC’s scope was further expanded and we took on the
complete construction responsibilities for installing the skids, supplying all the needed utility systems and piping, as well as final check out, commissioning and start up. SPEC prequalified approximately 10 bidders resulting in three primary subcontract awards to union contractors whose work area included the client’s Albany, NY facility. During an intense 12 week
period on site, a 30’ x 140’ concrete housekeeping pad was placed, 12 different utility pipe lines
were installed in a vertical rack system, the base building electrical system was upgraded to
1600 amps, and all the process skids were landed, hooked up, tested, and commissioned. The
compressed schedule was, in part, possible as SPEC had the majority of the process equipment
shipped to one of our design build team members, allowing us to directly supervise the skid
fabrication, electrical instrumentation assembly, installation of control cabinets and execute a
Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) on the skids, local to us in Massachusetts. The onsite installation
of utility systems for chilled water, compressed air, steam, and waste water was done in parallel
and was itself expedited by the shop fabrication of 8000 LF of rack piping and related structural
steel supports.
Controls used included: Seimans PCS7 DCS, approximately 250 points of Profibus connected I/O
and VFDs, and Endress & Hauser flowmeters.
SPEC supported the client throughout plant start-up and was integrally involved in control
system start-up. The plant is now running at full capacity.
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27.
NANO TECHNOLOGY
ASPEN AEROGELS MANUFACTURING FACILITY –
EAST PROVIDENCE, RI
Project Summary:
This project was delivered on a Design/Build basis due to client schedule requirements. SPEC
involvement began on the Process Flow Diagram (PFD) development level, included site selection
and town approval, and continued through eventual plant start up and testing. It was a successful
project as Aspen Aerogels obtained their facility both on time and on budget.
Project Highlights and Key Scope Features:
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Contract Basis – Open Book, guaranteed maximum price
Contract Value - $23 Million
Total Building Size – 150,000 sq ft
High Hazard Manufacturing Space – 23,000 sq ft with space designed to double this
amount in the future
Tank Farm – Four 25,000-gallon and four 10,000-gallon tanks of hazardous materials
Also included two 100,000-lb liquefied Carbon Dioxide tanks and a 10,000-gal liquefied
Nitrogen tank.
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Piping included high pressure (3000 psig) specifications designed for supercritical fluids.
Process design via intelligent P&ID software and 3D pipe modeling program.
SPEC worked with the piping subcontractor to develop isometric drawings directly
from the modeling program, saving time and money during construction.
ABB DCS batch process system incorporating continuous product flow management
with over 1400 points.
Process and manufacturing based performance criteria for measurement of project
completion.
Schedule Highlights:
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Design Start – December 2004
General Town Approval Obtained – April 2005
Building Demolition Start – November 2005
GMP Package Accepted – February 2006
Construction Start – March 2006
Plant Startup and TestingCcompleted – October 2006
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28.
E-INK – CAMBRIDGE, MA
The client contacted SPEC to work with them in expanding one of their
downstream process manufacturing steps. This was necessitated by a
very large order for E-Ink’s displays for use in Motorola’s low cost third
world cell phone product line. SPEC built a new room within their
existing building, installed new ventilation, a PLC based control system
with three cabinets, and all the process and utility support piping to
complete the installation. As part of this expansion, a new type of centrifuge was installed
resulting in improved product recovery rates.
At the conclusion of this first manufacturing process debottlenecking project, E-Ink asked SPEC to
upgrade and increase the capacity of their upstream reaction process as well. To allow this expansion
to take place, the existing power feed to the building needed to be increased, and E-Ink decided to
install a standby generator for their critical manufacturing steps as part of this electrical system
upgrade. The three additional projects and the original downstream process were implemented
within one calendar year at a total cost of approximately $2.2M. End result was an 83% increase in
overall product yield. Project highlights are summarized below:
Reaction Process Area
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New “H” occupancy flammable storage and dispensing room
(4) reagent storage vessels, 6 new reactor chillers, 10 ton air cooled glycol chiller
PLC based process controls
Explosion proof wiring, lighting and motors
2 new reactors and their associated feed systems installed
New “HPM” Area Class with 4CFM/SF HVAC System
Electrical Upgrade
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New above roof mounted 100% rated 3000 amp switchgear
Installed structural steel platform and foundations to support switchgear
Trenching, conduit & underground feeders from 750 KVA Utility installed transformer
New 1000 amp Board for new loads and back feed existing 80% rated board
Standby Generator
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Installed concrete pad, underground feeders, and fenced enclosure for new generator
Generator Capacity of 750KW at 208V, Southworth Milton with 1285 gallon, integral
base double wall, diesel storage tank
Pritchard Brown Enclosure with critical silencer
Indoor ATS and ^% KVA UPS system for control systems and specified critical loads
26

30.
ASTEX, DIVISION OF MKS, DIVISION HEADQUARTERS
& MANUFACTURING FACILITY – WILMINGTON, MA
Project Description:
SPEC provided a design/build / Commissioning package to ASTeX , for the relocation of their
combined manufacturing, R&D and office space from their old facility in Woburn, MA to the
expanded facility in Wilmington, MA
The complete design/build cycle for this $9.2 M project lasted from January of 2000 to July
2000. The client needed an up and running facility by the first week in July due to lease
constraints. Downtime was not an option that could be tolerated, which required careful
phasing of both the construction of the new building and relocation from the old building.
The project highlights included the following technical elements:
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118,000 sq ft gut and rehab of the existing building at 90 Commerce Way.
Renovated for Clean Manufacturing, Discrete Manufacturing, QC/QA, R&D and
support space.
New Utilities including HVAC, High Purity Gases, Process Chilled Water, Plant Air,
Electrical Service, Fire Protection and Waste Treatment Systems.
Employee Amenities were also added including a full service kitchen, health club and
complete upgrade to the office spaces.
SPEC gave the building an upgraded look by providing a new façade, entry and
reception area.
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31.
CONTROLS
INTELLISENSE, DIV., OF CORNING INC. HAZARDOUS
GAS BUNKER – WILMINGTON, MA
Project Description:
SPEC provided a design/build package for IntelliSense Corporation for the design, construction
and commissioning of a hazardous gas storage bunker to meet the code requirements for
an HPM rated storage area. The scale up from R&D to production scale operations required
dedicated space to meet the requirements of the local authorities.
SPEC integrated the code analysis with a design and construction package that delivered a
complete and functioning project. SPEC also integrated the temporary hazardous gas monitoring
system into a PLC based plant wide system.
29

32.
ASTRA-ZENECA, AIR DRYER INSTALLATION –
WESTBOROUGH, MA
Project Description:
SPEC worked with Donovan Engineering and Construction as a design-build team to install
a new Air Dryer / Filter system for Astra - Zeneca Pharmaceuticals in Westborough, MA. SPEC
provided the engineering design documents for piping and electrical installations. SPEC’s
contracting group coordinated the trades and contracts for the installation, and built an
Intellution Fix SCADA system to monitor, record and alarm the compressed air dryer system for
the Astra-Zeneca plant in Westborough, MA.
Controls engineers from SPEC worked with the equipment manufacturer to modify PLC code
to get the required data from the controlling PLC. The SCADA System screens were designed to
the client’s corporate standards.
Some of the key successes of this project included:
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A comprehensive design/build approach that met the client’s strict schedule and
quality requirements.
Early coordination between SPEC’s controls engineers and the air dryer equipment
vendor packaged control system was integrated into the plant-wide data networks,
and followed corporate equipment standards.
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33.
CENTRAL ARTERY TUNNEL “BIG DIG” VENT FAN CONTROL
– BOSTON, MA
Project Description:
SPEC has successfully completed the programming and commissioning of the ventilation fan
control system for the northbound “Liberty Tunnel” of downtown Boston’s “Big Dig” project.
The ongoing work involves the support and upgrades to the Control System for additional
monitors and maintenance / testing functions.
The engineering firm, Jacobs / Sverdrup Engineering, provided schematic design. SPEC completed
the detailed design of the hardware provided by Square D / Modicon to meet the project
specifications. SPEC developed the PLC code in compliance with IEC – 61131-1 to create
reusable function blocks. This approach reduced the amount of software development time
and made the Factory Acceptance and Site Acceptance Testing predictable and manageable.
VENT BUILDING CENTRIFUGAL FANS
The control system monitors traffic and life safety conditions and adjusts the amount of supply
air to meet specific real time conditions within the tunnel network, via VFD’s. Monitoring of fan
bearing temperature and vibration insure that each system is maintained in good working order.
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35.
TYPICAL JET FAN HMI SCREEN
The Jet Fans used in this project are strategically placed within the Tunnel System to quickly
evacuate Smoke and Carbon Monoxide should a critical level be reached. All systems report
to the Operations Control Center so that Exhaust and Jet Fan speeds can be optimally tuned to
match traffic flow conditions.
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